Certainty and Curiosity – A Calming Combo
Certainty and curiosity are quite a powerful and paradoxical pair of emotions. The older I get, the more I realize how potent the embodiment of
Certainty and curiosity are quite a powerful and paradoxical pair of emotions. The older I get, the more I realize how potent the embodiment of
Summary In this 26 minute episode of the MyFESTUS.com Conversation Show, host Sara engages with Lynnsie and Alicia from the Ozark Food Pantry to discuss
Summary In this 22 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara welcomes Alicia Vazquez, a dynamic figure in the Festus community, to discuss her multifaceted
Summary In this 32 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Luke Tetrault from Taytro’s, Petit Paree, and The Contrarian. They discuss local
Summary In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara engages with Lynnsie Kerperien from Custom Insurance to discuss the importance of tailored
Summary In this 20 minute episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Kami Kimes about her journey and the importance of community connection, particularly
Learn more about the recent: Women Empowering Women Event – BUSINESS WOMEN’S GROUP OF JEFFERSON COUNTY on: ~ Thursday, January 30, 2025 ~ ** This
✨Are you someone who likes to be “in-the-know” and included? ✨Do you love hearing insider-information first? ✨Do you become energized when you are around other
A Conversation with Courtney on Community Theatre: We had SO much to talk about, we had to break this podcast episode into TWO Parts! SOO fun!
Within the busyness of the holiday season, it can sometimes be difficult to connect. Perhaps music can help? “Music at its core is a way
May I shine the SPOTLIGHT on the BEST, most fun and creative community nonprofit organization: Spotlight Community Theatre. Am I biased about this group of
Enjoy listening to, and watching, this 20-minute MyFESTUS.com Conversations Episode: First Responders Respond to Family Needs with Jeffco Shop with a Cop: a Conversation with
This time of year, with the holiday season upon us, it can bring up many conflicting feelings, personal to each of us… …excitement, stress, optimism,
In this amusing, yet educational, 19-minute interview episode, local residents and leaders, Donna Litton and Ben Brown, join me for a fun conversation. Learn about
If you are trying to figure out what to do tonight, or this weekend, this is an itty-bitty, non-paid endorsement inviting you to figure out
When it is raining and when there is no school in Festus today and tomorrow, my daughter wanted to share her idea, in her words:
I wanted to shine the light on a local non-profit organization, the Twin City Area Optimist Club, as they participated in two 2024 community events offering
The Podcast Pilot with a Purpose-Driven Pair: Scott Seek and Andy Held What an entertaining first interview episode! Through our hilarious conversation, local Festus residents
I am excited about the opportunity to SHARE communication via email to CONNECT with you as we all SUPPORT OurFESTUS-area community. SUBSCRIBE to communication for
I’m excited to explain this new podcast thing! It’s fun to be nosy and simply listen in here: However, if you want to be nosy
Introducing MyFESTUS.com Conversations: is a Powerful (and Playful!) POD/WEBCAST! Perhaps you’re curious… How can I learn about what is going on around here? Who can
Our Twin City Trick-or-Treating Tradition Traditions are nourishing, comforting, and can even be transformative. Traditions are certain rituals and connections within a moment of time.
A teaser is short and sweet, leaving one salivating for more. A teaser is a treat, a taste, an itty-bitty preview of what it is
Peanut butter, jelly, and bread are each impressive and tasty entities in their own individual rights, but when these three ingredients are merged together, it
Our family loves OurFESTUS-area community and loves our local community theater group: Spotlight Community Theatre…not only because of the opportunities on stage and behind the
The leaves are falling and the coffee is calling your name right into The Corner Cup Micro Bakery, located on our charming and historic Festus/Crystal
Updated Prior to the October 18, 2024, Atlas Youth Outreach Hosted a Teen Trunk-or-Treat. Check out what it, and they, are all about: Teenagers are
I am cracking myself up as I casually combine these words; however, that is how I felt throughout the evening last night as I was
Oh Main & Mill, how I adore all that you are. From your historic and charming energy to your flavorful and fulfilling meals. From your
Our whole family had a blast at the Autumn Ridge Car Show on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Check out our why we were so excited:
Main & Mill Brewing Company hosted StreetFest on October 12 & 13, 2024. Check out what it was all about: Graphics courtesy of the Main &
LISTEN to THIS story on my NEW YouTUBE Channel…or keep reading:There is nothing like traveling outside of our local city, county, state, or country that
On October 12, 2024, Autumn Ridge Residences hosted an epic Car Show. Check out what it was all about: Check out pictures from the
On October 13, 2024, Second Hand Heros hosted an their first Car Show. Check out what it was all about: Second Hand Heros helps folks
🙋🏼♀️I am SOOO excited for you to check out this fun VIDEO TOUR of the updated MyFESTUS.com website…as you listen to my northern accent. 😅
On September 26, 2024, from 3 to 7 PM, the public is invited to a Soft Opening of MeMa’s Finds, located on our CHARMING and
Nine years ago, a few buddies were looking to meet on a consistent, weekly basis to ride bikes and enjoy each other’s company. Throughout the
Do Fridays ever have you feeling a little feisty?🙋♂️ … Maybe even a little spicy? You know, that sassy energy that just makes you wanna
“The key to success is to start before you’re ready.” Marie Forleo Sometimes we are presented with an unexpected opportunity in life that is ready
Bring on the pumpkin latte!!! Iced or hot, I will savor this kind of fall treat right about now! Spooky Halloween energy at this point
I call her “Marvelous Marie.” I am referring to the marvelous local celebrity, Marie Stelling, Community Relations Director at Autumn Ridge Residences. There are multiple
I LOVE a good organizational system! In fact, to my embarrassment, my parents LOVE to tell people that I asked for a filing cabinet when
MyFESTUS.com is proud to partner with Live Stream STL to communicate stories on the BRAND NEW Live Stream JC (Jefferson County) TV Channel/Network (coming soon!). We
Are you a Festus-based woman in business curious about the NEW FESTUS chapter of: Little Black Book? While the informational meeting has passed, if you are
As the weather warms up, we feel fresh and are able to incorporate aspects of freshness in our life by getting outside to explore. The
People in Jefferson County are looking for referrals that go beyond a general internet search. We all want to know WHO we can TRUST to
With Twin City days happening this last weekend, I wanted to highlight one of my favorite local restaurants, and how supporting our local people and
Have you ever thought about being on stage or helping behind the stage? Is there an itty-bitty part of you craving a creative outlet? Perhaps
Eat some great food for a great cause! I love when businesses can help non-profit organizations! Texas Roadhouse (Festus, MO – 1351 Shapiro Drive) is
Have you ever gone into a restaurant hungry, wanting to eat EVERYTHING off the menu? You cannot decide on what to order! Do you want
Community is not just a group of people, it is an energy, a feeling, and a vibe of connection. Community is something the people build.
Ohh the summer temperatures are elevating again in OurFESTUS area! To elevate your outdoor adventures and COOL off, OurFAMILY recommends an itty-bitty drive to De
The time that we have all been waiting for is here! The Contrarian Concert Hall & Theater on our charming and historic Festus Main Street
This last Saturday, our family had so much fun volunteering at the Back To The 80’s themed, family (and dog) friendly 5K run at Jefferson
If you are craving being outdoors to finally enjoy this gorgeous weather, the Grind Coffee Company in Crystal City, Missouri has got you covered! Literally,
Having grown up in Wisconsin, I consider this kind of summer heat “vacation weather.” I can feel you rolling your eyes at me. I can
Throughout this sweet summer, as my children and I are exploring and experiencing all there is to love in OurFESTUS area, we have intentional conversations
SHARE: We are a non-profit organization in Hillsboro, Missouri, dedicated to helping young girls and teens to become confident and empowered young women through equine
From age 9 to 17, it was extremely fortunate to be able to attend a weeklong summer camp at Pine Lake Camp in central Wisconsin.
My kiddos and I had a blast volunteering/helping cheer on participants on at the “Back To School 5K Run” with a Back to the 80’s
Camels and birds and sloths, Oh My! It is incredible to think that animal lovers of all ages can take a short, scenic 25-minute ride
Due to my daughter’s busy schedule, my son and I are fortunate to have a lot of dinner dates out, just the two of us.
SHARE: Our customers desire to decorate their homes with unique home decor and furniture. By sourcing items from several local artists and small American businesses,
We all love stories. Stories help us to understand, imagine, and relate. If you are a local woman who adores a good story, you will
My teenage daughter, Audrey, is a very busy, active girl. She loves being ON THE GO… ALL.THE.TIME. My 10-year-old son, Dayton, is active, but prefers
You are invited to the soft opening of The Contrarian, on our charming and historic Festus Main Street, this upcoming weekend! Spotlight Community Theatre’s youth
I woke up feeling bright and blessed, and a bit buzzed, from the connections I felt yesterday, on July 13th, 2024. My 13-year-old daughter and
“Four Brothers Mead produces a Viking Era Honeywine (Mead) created by four Veterans from Missouri.” They recently hosted their 3rd Annual Pirate Party on July 13th. People
My children and I felt cool and free on Independence Day with the magic of the movies at our favorite local movie theater, B&B Theatres,
YEA for this year’s Twin City Firecracker Festival in OurFESTUS! Our family always has a blast at this event! Check out our 2023 pictures and
Ooh La La… Just saying those itty-bitty words and letting the luxurious sounds roll off your tongue create a fancy feeling of love and exquisite
When the weather is glorious, eating outside adds an element of delight for our senses to experience. Different sounds, air, temperature and energy can enhance
Some combinations just make life better when they are blended together: Vanilla Oreos + Sour Patch Kids (my kiddos are obsessed!) Will Farrell + John
Our charming and historic Main Street in Festus/Crystal City, Missouri will be blocked off on Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 so people of all ages can enjoy
Having lived in many other cities and states, I observe a different vibe in the Festus, MO area. While I write about my adoration of
Many of us naturally, subconsciously, operate with a negativity bias. While this can keep us safe, we often tell ourselves to keep believing in negative
June 11th, 2024 marked the 9th Anniversary Tuesday Night Ride (TNR). Per local leader and one of the original Tuesday Night Ridge founders, Andy Held,
Have you ever had one of those days or moments when you are feeling a little crispy…like a little, or a lot, on-edge with everyone?
With the 9th Anniversary of the Tuesday Night Ride event, and many more fun upcoming events, I wanted to shine the light on someone you
Recently Main & Mill Brewing Company declared on their Facebook Page: “Coming soon to a patio near you! We will have live music on our
This is the time of year where we are all READY to welcome in a little FUN…right!? ✨ There is so much FUN to be
On 5/27/24, the team at Savannah’s Coffee Corral posted on social media: “Hello! I just want to update everyone about Savannah’s Coffee Corral – we have
My son’s fourth grade school year is coming to an end. This chapter of his life reminds me of my sweet summer memories as a
The glorious, fresh 70-degree weather in Festus, Missouri has been marvelous this week. Savoring the sun and spring air is rejuvenating. Our family has been
Given the Mother’s Day holiday, SOOO many upcoming celebrations, and the START of the new season of the Herculaneum Farmer’s Market, I wanted to highlight
My son is signed up for this again in 2024! Will your itty-bitty be attending? Check out what we thought in 2023: Festus Soccer hosted
Earlier this week, I posted about the Unbelievable Mystical Magic in The Mine at Bonne Terre. Reminiscing about this day brought me back to where
When it comes to reading books, watching movies, or listening to podcasts, are you a science fiction fan? Are you into thrillers? How about someone
How do you know when you are out of alignment, living a life incongruent with your authentic self? When you see your shadow, do you
The “FOOD” category has been one of the most popular features on my website. Probably because we all like to eat!? And, because I have
As a parent, do you ever feel like you need to “up your game” to keep being cool with your kids? As my kids get
Culture, as it is defined by the Oxford Dictionary is the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively. Festus, Missouri is a convenient
NEW OWNERS FOR TANGLEFOOT CREAMERY ANNOUNCED! Yeeeaaaahhhh! How exciting that this business will continue on! May OurFESTUS-area community support these courageous and creative folks. Follow them
Y’all know I love to be in OurFESTUS. Occasionally, I travel outside of our awesome community and take a quick, 15 mile trip north to
My sweet son is turning 10 today! In honor of this special, double digit, golden milestone birthday, I wanted to share our top 10 favorite
Why choose one flavor of ice cream when you have full permission to choose FOUR flavors!?! That’s right…ice cream flights (among other amazing drinks, food,
Do you remember those red buttons that Staples put out a few years ago? They sat on your desk and you would press it, and
LaChance Vineyards is THE destination in DeSoto, Missouri to relax, unwind, and fall in love with your life, and serenity. I believe in creating a
If you are staying in the Festus/Crystal City, Missouri area for Spring Break, but craving some Mexican vibes, this is an itty-bitty, non-paid invitation for
Do you set annual or monthly “themes” goals? Do you have a word or a concept that you focus on for a period of time?
As the sun shines and you feel the seasons shift, you can also feel a shift within your soul. It’s like, as the air freshens
When I am with my children in the car, or as we are eating together, we often inquire and talk about our “favorites.” It is
There is always time to fit in fun, and fuel. Something fun that I have been doing with my children, for years, is to incorporate
Tokyo Hibachi, in Herculaneum, Missouri, has transformed the dine-in experience. Having dined-in in early 2023 when they were newly opened, I was thoroughly impressed with
Sending you a sweet, itty-bitty loving wish for you to love yourself a little more today. Many of us take the holiday of Valentine’s Day
February Family Fun at Cactus Pete’s Family Fun Center: February in Festus, Missouri is far different than February in Wisconsin, where I grew up. Here
Within your busy, bustling schedule, do you leave space for serendipity? Do you leave margin for mini miracles to unfold within your day? Doing so
Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day, or not, there is one lovely local establishment that is filled with love. Within a historic and charming building on
Many of our admirable and talented Festus 7th and 8th grade students have been immersed in the creation of their musical production, “The Addams Family
When we believe we are worthy of goodness in our life, good things happen. I was recently talking with my 12-year-old daughter, Audrey, about this
My seventh grade daughter, Audrey, recently attended an entertaining teen karaoke night at the newly-opened, The Green Room, on our charming and historic Festus Main
Regardless if you create New Year’s resolutions, or just have intentions to shift your thoughts and/or behaviors, leaning into a local library can help you
Alignment of two seemingly opposite facets of life can create astonishing results. As we are engrained with traditional logic and instant facts, it can be
Ready or not, the holidays are here. Many of us are blessed with an opportunity to be around others to socially engage. Sometimes, we get
Food + Environment + Energy = Recipe for a Craving When we have developed a relationship where the above trifecta is nourished, a craving is
MTV…the “Music” television network influenced the lives of at least three generations of teenagers and young adults. Most Gen X-ers, Millennials, and Gen Z-er’s are
Within this busy, bustling moments of our lives, I invite you to take a break from reality and treat yourself to the magic of the
Somehow, someway, the world always delivers. When we think about it, even when we are in a moment of scarcity, something always, miraculously works out.
As I was transitioning my home decor to say goodbye to Halloween, and say hello to my warm and cozy fall decorations last weekend, Gizmo
An owl is a symbol of wisdom and grace. When one winks at you, it is truly a sign of good things to come. There
Did you ride a bike as a kid? I did! When I reminisce about my childhood memories on my bike, I instantly smile and feel
🎃😁🧡Happy Halloween from 1988! This is 4-year old me, loving my carved pumpkin, rocking my “Dog the Bounty Hunter” mullet next to my older brother,
Embracing a “beginner’s mind” is available to all of us. It means internally showing up as a student, ready to learn and participate. It requires
Transition into fall by treating yourself to a festive treat at The Corner Cup Micro Bakery. I had the privilege of sharing coffee over conversation
☝️🍣 🍱 Sweet and savory sushi at Kasabi Japanese Steak, Sushi & Ramen …followed by… ✌️🎶🍹A chill acoustic set by Elliot Pearson [@thepassinglanestl], accompanied by
Have you ever been in between appointments in the Festus area and you just need to take a moment to pause? Or, perhaps you are
A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to learn more about the nonprofit organization: Champ Assistance Dogs when their Director of Education, Jacqui Zancanta, spoke
We are in the middle of summer, or at least the middle of a traditional three-month summer break for those who are in school during
L.E. may stand for the initials of Lisa Ellison, who owns the DYI ceramic paint studio in Crystal City; however, after spending time within her
Yesterday was the last day of summer school for Festus students. I am grateful for the entire Festus R-VI School District who cultivated a fun,
I originally wrote about the Festus, MO Pine Mountain Country Coffee House & Mercantile location in February, 2023 (see below). Now, I would like to
Some words, phrases and concepts just speak to me. I was originally invited to attend a Twin City Area Optimist Club meeting to learn more
Before I moved to Missouri in 2018, I spent the prior year visiting the Festus area every month to learn and explore. One of the
Our family completed this fun activity on a break from school and I wanted to share:While school is not in session, our family explored our
Imagine you are an itty-bitty mouse. You pick your demeanor…are you a sweet, sassy or snarky little creature? Feisty or shy? You are a working
With school being out, there is a liberating energy that only summertime brings. A hankering to be sassy, spontaneous, risky, daring and adventurous! As you
I love my kids AND I love time away from them on a rare date night. Jason and I recently enjoyed a date night/dinner out
I spent the morning at the Festus Intermediate School. I was honored to be a parent volunteer to help for the sixth-grade timeframe at the
Last night was an evening full of pride, honoring a school year of commitment and teamwork. Festus Intermediate music students had the opportunity to showcase
Last night we did not plan to go out to eat. We had the oven preheating with full intentions of dining in; however, after what
I had a long “To-Do List” this weekend, fully expecting to check off each itty-bitty task. The “task master/controller” part of me likes everything to
There seems to be a communal obsession and adoration for the restaurant Main & Mill Brewing Company, located at (you guessed it), the corner of
Festus Soccer will be hosting another Festus Youth Soccer Camp this year from May 30 – June 1. My children have loved this short and
With your personality, do you identify as someone who knows what you want and need? Or, do you find yourself more curious and open to
“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” – Phyllis Diller Did you know that when we smile…when we intentionally curve the
When a locally owned business opens a second location, you know they must be doing something right! While On the Grind Coffee Company (OTG) (also
My nine-year-old son is teaching himself how to skateboard. Yesterday, we went to the Larry G. Crites Memorial Park/West City Park in Festus, MO. Given
Congratulations to the talented 5th & 6th Grade Festus Intermediate Honor Choir students, and Mr. Rhine, who sang a noteworthy National Anthem at the St.
“Sunsets, like childhood, are viewed with wonder not just because they are beautiful but because they are fleeting.” – The Gift, Richard Paul Evans fleet·ing:
On today’s rainy, stormy day in Festus, MO, I am remembering the recent feeling of the sun rays, warm sea water and soft sand on
Our childhood experiences and choices shape and mold much of the identity we have today. While I believe in the power of change, there are
Our community is so fortunate to have such excellent, entertaining establishments! So many smiles at my daughter’s friends’ 12-year-old birthday party with sweet treats at
When I was a little girl, I had a colorful jewelry box with an itty-bitty silver crank on the back. When you would wind up
Last night, my children and I had a blast bonding over an entertaining and sweet cookie decorating class. Conveniently held in the historic Heuby E.
Taytro’s Bar and Bistro is truly a triple threat for one’s dining experience as they offer: – Tasty, scrumptious food and delectable drinks – Tremendous,
I’m sooo pumped for the Festus Intermediate School Honor Choir 2022 Christmas Concert TONIGHT @ 7:00 PM at the Festus Performing Arts Center. If you
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